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The Platypus demonstrates how natural selection plays a crucial role in how species may produce viable offsrping. From this animal, we can see that it resembles parts from the bird, reptile, and mammal. This provides a link to how mammals may be different from other animal group, and may allow fro scientists to see what earlier mammals looked like. Because of its Reptilian features, The platypus is may help us discover how mammals evolved their particular traits from their earlier lineage.
The platypus is thought to have lived among dinosaurs. This shows that maybe their was no need for the platypus to evolve much over the yeats because of their Australian enviroment. This is beneficial on our part because we are able to see what divergence occured for mammals to occur in their current form.

To me, the platypus serves as an example of how diverse and mystifying the animal kingdom truly is. Genomics has opened the human mind up to all the discoveries we can make just by studying a DNA strand. Genes tell us exactly the type of evolutionary relationship two organisms have with each other with no guessing involved. It provides the concrete evidence that allows us to better understand the past and how it affects us in the present. With our advanced knowledge of how DNA works, who knows what systematists will find next. If the platypus can have three types of DNA in its genes, then who knows what other organisms out there will have an even freakier combination of DNA. Evolutionary relationships are more intricate and complex than humans used to think it was. It’s not just black and white, this and that. We humans have a lot of work ahead of us in order to more fully understand how all the organisms on earth are biologically connected.

I think that is just amazing. That the platypus has three different animal types in the one form. That something like that could even happen, and if by happenstance that evolution did occur for this organism, not that it was just created like it is. That in itself is a mystery for us yet to discover why this stuff happens.

What’s interesting to think about is it is possible that mammals, reptiles and birds have a common ancestor. The platypus most likely is the only animal to show any connection between all these animal groups.

It is amazing that an animal can have so many characteristics of three major types of animals. How it became like this is even more amazing. Could it evolve all these different characteristics from a common ancestor that these three types of organisms share in common and be its own group or is it a preserved type of mammal that evolved from reptiles without getting rid of all the reptilian characteristics. Either way the platypus is an amazing animal that shows how all organisms on Earth share common ancestors and prove evolution.

More advanced techniques that out performs fossil records and homologous structures are just now being used more frequently today in the present, DNA sequencing is helping scientists understand genetics in a whole new level, its just incredible how far science can go

Genomics research has the potential to revolutionize the research of uncovering relationships between species. Genomics research can change what we already know about the relationships that exist among extant species by either enforcing what we already assumed, or providing evidence that proves we were wrong in some cases. What we’ve learned about the platypus could help us to understand more about our own human species in the theory that we as mammals might also have evolved from primitive reptiles.

The platypus serves as an example to us humans that we are not even close to discovering everything there is to know about the twisted world of DNA. Only recently, scientists have discovered that the platypus had three different types of DNA construed in its genes. DNA is so complex and intricate that we have to keep our minds open to all the possibilities. Genomics and advanced technology has given us the golden opportunity of discovering new things about genes not only in humans but also in other organisms. Genes are the most reliable way of studying evolutionary relationships and allow us to peer inside the molecular world of organisms. The platypus DNA discovery is only the beginning of novel discoveries to be made about other undiscovered organisms that may even have freakier combinations of DNA. The article proves to us as students that the smallest things in life can explain how all of Earth’s organisms came into being and teach us more about our mystifying past. DNA is more than a giant instruction manual; it is the history of our lives.

If you look at the genomics of species maybe we will find more related species that can help uncover mysteries of evolution. Also maybe there will be a relationship between certain extinct species that will explain why they were selected out of the populations. With all the information learned about the platapus it could help us understand certain strands of dna and what they do in relation to life.

Could it be possible that there used to be more 70% mammal/bird/reptile creatures, like there’s mammals, birds, and reptiles, a long time ago? Could it be possible that the platypus isn’t classifiable as a mammal, but instead, a Ornihorhynchus? There are been creatures that are supposed Ornihorhynchus found in the fossil record; but where does when draw the line when it comes to deciding when something is no longer a mammal, and instead a completly different thing?

I would like to say that I am astounded that this species exsists. I mean I thought this was a farce when I heard of this animal. I hope that this can provide more evidence that evolution exsists and give scientists a further prespective of what organisms may have looked like and behaved millions of years ago.

When I think “platypus,” I think of Patti the Platypus Beanie Baby, the purple fuzzy stuffed animal from a McDonald’s Happy Meal. Quite obviously, real platypus are not purple. I learned a lot in class as we discussed the odd characteristics of the platypus. Many of these characteristics can be observed just by looking at a platypus (a real one). But insight into this creature’s DNA reveals so much more than physical traits. We can investigate similarities and differences between it and organisms. Genomics can be especially helpful in tracing ancestory. Although we are missing a few links right now, there may exist a currently undiscovered organism or two that connect the platypus to its ancestors.

I bet there were even cooler animals than the platypus, but they died for one reason or another in areas where fossilization couldn’t occur. Can you imagine a world full of animals weirder than the platypus? I have a feeling that in the next few years, genomics will call in to question many things that we ‘know’ — such as everyone once ‘knew’ the earth was flat.

This is absolutely amazing how DNA research has come so far. In the past they used fossil records for comparison but now they are able to use DNA comparison. The achievements and advancements in this field of research is just amazing and how the field can be used for a much bigger comparison to come eventually.

Just the thought of mammals evolving from primitive reptiles seems impossible. However, this impossibility is refuted by the mere existence of the platypus, which exhibits reptile DNA, bird DNA, and mammal DNA. In addition, this topic brings up the possibility of the existence of ancient organisms similar to the DNA combinations of the platypus.

that. is. AWESOME!
australia holds, in my opinion, the most odd species on the planet; and the platypus definitely takes the cake.

By studying genomics, it can show lineage between species, comparing DNA sequences to other similar organisms. The platypus is one of the prime examples of where genomics has enhanced our understanding. With this research, like Alan said, can either reinforce our understanding or challenge our knowledge of species relationships, giving us new ideas and possibilities. By studying genomics, we would be allowed to think outside of the box concerning relationships between species. We would be able to test DNA sequences with other species without out high risk but potentially gaining high reward. Our human species could also be linked using genomics, allowing us to see where the human race linked in the evolutionary timeline.

I just think as someone said in a different blog post how this animal may be astounding now but in fact the fact that the fossil record is so imcomplete shows how there is a huge gap for improvement and the ability for more animals to be discovered. And maybe since the platypus has 70% mammal with so many different features scientist decided to classify it that way because it was the dominating genotype.

I liked how Krishan brought up the idea that the platypus has survived so long with so many odd features that it might not have to evolve anymore. Which might bring up the point that maybe species that have combined genes like the platypus with mammals, reptiles, and birds are essentially almost a perfected species, since they have several different DNA. It’s almost hinting at the idea that in order to survive evolution species need to adapt to almost every lifestyle, which at this point is impossible.

I think the sequencing of the platypus genome reveals the importance of genomics research. Scientists cannot only rely on the phenotypes of organisms and should continue to investigate the DNA sequences of organisms. By sequencing other organisms, scientists can make astonishing new findings such as those with the platypus.

The platypus serves as an example to us humans that we are not even close to discovering everything there is to know about the twisted world of DNA. Only recently, scientists have discovered that the playtpus had three different types of DNA construed in its genes. DNA is so complex and intricate that we have to keep our minds open to all the possibilities. Genomics and advanced technology has given us the golden opportunity of discovering new things about genes not only in humans but also in other organisms. Genes are the most reliable way of studying evolutionary relationships and allow us to peer inside the molecular world of organisms. The platypus DNA discovery is only the beginning of novel discoveries to be made about other undiscovered organisms that may even have freakier combinations of DNA. The article proves to us as students that the smallest things in life can explain how all of Earth’s organisms came into being and teach us more about our mystifying past. DNA is more than a giant instruction manual; it is the history of our lives.

Genomics research links species that became extinct millions of years ago with species that are living today through observations in fossils and DNA sequencing. I agree with Ellie…what we think we know today does not necessarily reflect the truth, and we will continue to learn more and more in the future which will only alter what we “know” today.

The platypus is one of my favorite animals of all times. It always has been. It is by far the most fasinating and strange animal of our time. Like others have commented, it is very possible that there were once many other animals like this, but the fossil record is so sparse that scientists really may never know. That makes it very hard to understand just how the platypus came to be, but I think its that unknowingness that makes the platypus species so mystical.

I agree with Derrek in the fact that this supports the idea that mammals, birds, reptiles, and possibly all others evolved from one common ancestor. This ancestor probably holds the key that connects homosapiens to all other animal species. Weird.

So does this mean that these advances in genome research could be used to find the so-called “missing link” between humans and the mammalian common ancestor?

Where does the platypus create the venom and how does it transfer it to its predators. Is it the same as its milk production where it secretes it from the skin? What is the use of the bill? What kind of environment does it live in that it needs so many characteristics of different species?

I don’t understand why people are so fascinated by the fact that all life is connected genetically. It’s not that strange- we all live on this planet. Sure a lot of things have similar traits, similar genetic characteristics, but since when has it been so severe that we think it bizarre it even exists? Sure the platypus is freaky looking and different from all living things, but it is also very much like all living things. It has the same basic needs as everything else- why wouldn’t it be similar?

I agree that the platypus is a prime example, of evolution, and how animals as different as reptiles, birds and mammals could be related within one organism. This organism leaves us to question the possibilities of reproduction in the future. For example in order for their species to survive, would a bird be willing to mate with a mammal, will a reptile be willing to mate with a bird? of course these thoughts are one of extreme measures, but isnt that what it all comes down to? extremes? There are plenty of extremes in nature, one of the most recognized is weather. If extreme and utterly phenomenal weather can occur, then why not phenominal evolution and reproduction?

Research such as this turns what we thought we knew about species relationships completely on its head. What seemed possible only in one’s imaginations actually exists naturally. Learning about a rare creature like the platypus opens up chances to discover even more species with bizarre traits. It helps to prove seemingly separate species can be traced to a single common ancestor. In that case, humans might also share lineage with these creatures as opposed to being completely isolated as was once thought.

What is most strange about this animal, in my opinion, is that although it contains more that 70% mammal DNA, the creature doesn’t appear it. From the bill, to the venomous claw and even to the absence of nipples, the platypus is the paramount of irony in the selection of its phenotypes.

The semi-flaw i see in the fact that the platypus may be the “missing link” is that if there is a cornucopia of genes there must be at least one similar relative nearby the platypus. I know that evolution takes a long time, but when you have that many genes, it is assumed that there will be mistakes in replication, which will ultimately lead to different species. With that said, why aren’t there any platypus like animals that are more focused in one aspect of their genes.

Although its fine and dandy that we may have found the “missing link”, the only issue is that, where do fish fall in? For it was assumed that water organisms evolved to an amphiphian type species then to a reptile type, to an avian or mammalian type group. Yet if the platypus is the missing link, how is it that it has no traces of lingering fish DNA? The platypus would defy that fact that evolution takes a long time for all the beginning steps different type of species are compounded into one organism while the transition of fish or amphibian is not present.

In response to sara b., sure all living things tend to have the same needs, but with this animal it doesn’t have the usual characteristics of a mammal, but rather has the combined characteristics of several species, which so far had yield very few variations. I think many people are fascinated because they think if an animal can exist now that looks like this, what animals in the past or present that haven’t been discovered be like.

i think andrew brought up a really interesting point. i mean fish have shown evolution in tons of different ways but not a single species has been able to survive in a different conditions, such as the fish that glow in the dark or the freshwater fish. That kind of makes me wonder how some species are transported to different areas and adapt and thrive, if a single species could adapt to the point of being able to survive in any climate all over the world.

The big question:
Is the platypus the one ancestor all mammals, birds, and reptiles come from? Or is it through a few mutations of DNA that the platypus came to be? I’m sure scientists are still hacking these and other questions as they study the platypus and its ancestral roots.

To provide an educated guess for your question, Andrew, platypuses did originate in Australia, an isolated continent (after Pangea). This might have led to less predation of the platypuses and let them lead a more peaceful lifestyle, not having to worry about predators. Another theory could be that there might have been species like the platypuses before, but they failed to properly adapt to the environment they lived in. They eventually became extinct, and no proof is left of them unless they were preserved in fossils.

Responding to Andrew and Kierra’s response, it does seem weird that although it has mammal, bird, and reptile DNA, it has no trace of fish DNA. The earliest life forms began in water, and as species evolved, some came up onto the land. How the platypus has no fish DNA in its genes is a question that will linger for a long time. With the advances in techonology, however, we can shorten that time and possibly find out in a few years the reason the platypus has no fish DNA. This would create a better understanding of the platypus and how it survived for so long with its DNA structure.

The crazy thing about life, though, is that through one or two mutations in the gene sequence a whole new species can be created. Granted that most mutations are more harmful than beneficial, some mutations may help an organism keep a steadier heartbeat while running, letting it run longer without stopping; or help it to hear better, letting it run away from impending danger. These mutations may create a whole new species because they live longer and reproduce more. And because they are favored in a particular environment, the older species dies off, leaving behind this “super-organism” who is better adapted and can live longer. This all happens because of a small genetic change, which may have happened with the platypus, a small altering in its DNA structure, and because of it, a new species of organisms arises.

It is interesting that the platypus exhibits a lot of DNA from mammal and a little bit of DNA from reptile and bird. The little bit of DNA from the reptile and the bird could have originally existed in mammals and evolution could have caused them to disappear from mammals today. I think it is very odd that the platypus is part mammal, part reptile, and part bird.

I agree with Katie about the cute little purple platypus beanies. But back to genomics research, I think this kind of research is important to help us understand the evolution of species. In addition, I think it can also help us understand about certain diseases and identify ways to treat them.

Consdering the multiple parts of the platypus wouldnt it be interesting to see how far away the ancestor is from us as human beings. And could it be possible that we still hold some sort of reptile gene or bird gene. Whether it is the green eye coloring or the shape of our feet. If we were relatied, just think how close we are away from flying!

Platypuses are natures joke on us!

But in all accutalllity, they are just another reason that evolutution makes sense. They share DNA with mammels, birds and reptiles, leaving us as humans in a odd state. Here we are at the evolutionary family reunion looking at parrots, snakes, eagles and crocs feeling out of place. Till we think, “Hey, we must have been like them at some point in time. Otherwise, what is up with cousin platypus. He has hair like us, but eggs like those frantic birds, and venom like those creepy snakes.” making us feel alot more in tune…we still ain’t leaving the kitchen and heading into the main party…dude there are spiders out there…they are weird.

Although this seems pretty random, how would a platypus taste if it were eaten? For reptiles are not commonly digested in normal diet yet mammal and birds are. If a platypus was prepared at a diner, would it have to be skinned like a mammal, fillet like a reptile/fish, or even plucked like a bird? Although it has fur, the platypus has more than enough surprises to keep us guessing.

The platypus appears to be a beat up Honda civic that some kid was excited to fix up and added spinners of a Toyoda, hydraulics of an El Dorado, and venom from a snake. Each a component of the coolest car, yet ripped off in its placement of utility. For what is the good use of venom as a defense mechanism if its handicapped to the right part of the body? if a predator sneaks from the left side of a platypus, the platypus cannot defend itself well without the poison. The result? The platypus dies. Although the platypus seems awesome, its parts are placed in spots that cause for poor utility.

Aside from the fact that platypus’s are noted for their genes, it is amazing that if the platypus had the ability to fly, it would technically be the perfect animal. The mammal part of the platypus allows for regulating body temperatures, that allows for an extremely adaptable vitality. The reptilian parts allow for the young to be born for securely in eggs, for egg shells are tough and have the chance to survive a fall, without damage to the organism. Mammals on the other hand, if they were to fall from their fetus state, death or permanent deformation is certain. The avian parts cruelly do not give the platypus the gift of flight, strangely, however the bill and webbed feet it provides allows for faster swimming in water. The platypus would become the master of earth, water and air had it the ability to fly.

I have to agree with Austin on this one. I actually tried flying the other day, and I came pretty close. So all these studies that the researchers are putting into this unique, special little animal might actually be worth it. But personally I believe that scientists are spending too much time on the platypus and need to be spending their time on going in depth on the human genome. Or how about even finding a cure for cancer! Although finding interesting information on the platypus MAY help us understand more about our species, it’s still not enough. Scientists have all this time on their hands, they need to go in depth on the human genome to find out even more mysteries.

Genomics research can play an integral role in our continued search for answers when dealing with evolution. It can show the common characteristics and DNA between unrelated organisms. The Platypus contains different traits of mammals,birds and reptiles which just goes to show that we have much to learn about the different organisms in this world, and with the advancing technology in today’s society we should be able to find some answers soon.

I think the platypus is one of the most interesting animals there is. I’ve never quite understood it since I was always thrown off by the fact that it had a beak, fur, claws, and was a mammal, yet laid eggs. The fact that the platypus does have a bit of reptile DNA would explain a lot, however, it is still a mystery to me as to how the platypus came up to be part reptile, bird, and mammal.

I did not at first think about this having benefits in the field of medicine. After reading Katie and Camden’s comments, I agree that this could be possible. Scientists should utilize the knowledge they have found in order to help other species and the human species.

Genomics research has the ability to uncover much more than we already know about relationships between species. The platypus still remains a mystery on how it has evolved into part reptile mammal, bird, and reptile. We still don’t know much about our relationships with other species of animals and genomics research could help us find out more about this. The platypus just shows us how much we really don’t know about evolution.

I think Andrew’s comparison to a beat up Honda civic sums up the platypus nicely. I never realized the platypus was such a bizarre animal. It is absurd that it has features from so many different animals and still manages to survive. Why is it useful to have so many diverse features?

In my life i have never gazed upon how a platypus what was the purpose or even the origin of this animal. Learning how this animal contains so many unique features such as Andrew stated in his analogies amazes me. I believe that mutation might have an involvement in the platypus’s deformation but i am not certain.

I have always heard of the platypus and it’s characteristics but never even begun to imagine what it’s DNA contained! In addition to everyone else, I want to know how this could have ever happened. And what ancestor is shared among them. And if it could have been a mutation.

Since these amazing discoveries were made about the platypus, showing that the advances in genomics research is advancing, I wonder what discoveries of relationships and connections between other odd organisms are in store for us? And if any of them can be traced to be a close ancestor to humans. It will be very interesting to make more connections.

This mysterious creature of natures creation fortifies the idea that all species evolved from a common ancestor many MANY years ago. How can it be denied that all types of animals did in fact evolve from a single organism? But the bigger question I have is why did different mammals, reptiles, and birds evolve to be so different and distinct from one another in their higher level classifications and Ornithorhynchus anatinus did not?

Let me just start out by saying that I didn’t know that a platypus laid eggs let alone part reptile and bird. I can’t believe how far genomics research has come to be able to discover these relationships, but this is a crazy scientific world. Although the genome of the platypus has finally been discovered, it’s only a matter of time until scientists find an efficient and consistent method of uncovering relationships among various diverse, yet similar species.

Yeah katie makes a good point that this research can present benefits in the field of medicine. With what is now known and what we was known by scientists in the past, opportunity for medicine advancements are huge.

I guess by studying the platypus such as figuring out why it did not contain fish DNA could help humans, but I think the big picture is that this organism survived with all these different DNA from species and.. over time, became… a…platypus..

Humans might learn from it by understanding how environmental factors can produce such a result… maybe show a little history by trying to simulate how Earth was like during the evolution of the platypus….

Katie and Victoria make excellent points, if we can find a way to harness medical benefits from researching the DNA of the platypus then this could be groundbreaking in the world of medicine. It blows my mind that the platypus…i mean the platypus?!..could potentially be the original species from which other evolved.

i did not know what a platypus actually was before this, and seeing all the components its made up of just adds to my wonder. The oldest fossil they could find of a platypus was 110 million years ago in australia. so it could very well be a common ancestor. i am also surprised at how it was able to survive for so long, with all its odd behaviors and parts, it proves to be fit to continue on for many more generations.

Just wondering, if it took us this long to uncover the mystery of the platypus then how long do we have until they’re gone? The International Union for Conservation of Nature has listed the platypus on it’s Red List and are worried because they are so threatened by water pollution. We definitely need to step it up and do all we can to save this incredible animal.

Oh, well knowing were humans came from is important. Because if you don’t know were you came form who knows were you could be going…maybe this could help us predict future creatures that evolve from our current mammels, and or us.

This is beyond doubt a one of a kind animal. It possesses toxic venom like a cold blooded animal, yet it produces milk like a mammal. It is the best of both worlds! One can only imagine who the real ancestors for this animal are and how it evolved into such an unusual, yet fascinating creature. First of all, what category of animals would it be closely related to?

Ahh I love the platypus! I can only imagine the reactions of earlier scientists before they had realized that the platypus was indeed a genuine animal and not some science project gone horribly wrong. I supose the advancement in genome testing will eventually lead to finding the missing link between man and ape.

Evolution is undeniably evident in the case of the Platypus because of its ability to shoot venom from its hind limb. This creature must have gradually descended from a reptile and another type of animal because it physically looks like a hairy duck with internal lethal abilities of a poisonous cobra. Scientists are unveiling life’s unknown mysteries through genome research. It took extensive time for biologist to figure out the true ancestor because one must go through a tedious process by determining the number of differences in the fragments of the molecules and even construct a phylogenic tree to envision its closest and most distant relative. This process is time-consuming, but it is making the puzzle of the origin of mammal evolution much clearer.

What the heck is wrong with Austraila?? Have you ever thought about all the strange creatures that are found only in Australia? The platypus, the koala bear, the kangaroo, the emu, the Tasmanian devil, the wombat, the anteater- the list goes on! I can only guess the reason is attributed to Pangea and once it broke off those species left on the continent evolved to the specific habitats they found….or maybe it’s just the water- haha.

I find it interesting that mammals could have evolved from snakes and lizards (simply put). If the platypus contains so many traits relating to so many species, I could see how this animal could be a product of inter-species breeding, when and if it actually occurred. What is so perplexing is the fact that this creature could have survived that long still showing strong signs of relations between so many different groups of animals.

This is fascinating, that a single organism could have bird, reptile, AND mammal DNA in it. One would hope for a common ancestor, as it would be a bit strange/creepy to find out that a reptile, a bird, and a mammal mated (in any order). But really, it is astounding to think that we humans could be related to the majestic falcon, or the invisible chameleon.

The details of the platypus and its genes most definitely could help one understand the conditions that were present on earth millions of years ago. It also will help scientist trace lines close to the beginning of time (maybe or maybe not: just a hopeful statement). The time it would take would be indefinite considering the amount of time it took to assess the genetic makeup of this timeless creature, it would take just the amount of work if not more to link the meanings to a whole array of species.

Genomics research has been extremely vital in discovering the missing links between the evolution of us and other mammal species. It’s weird to think that we once shared a common ancestor with the platypus millions of years ago. We all think that different animals belong to different species but this research causes us to rethink and wonder what other species are we and other animals related to each other. By digging down deeper into genomics we can practically go back in time and discover when certain traits were inherited. The platypus gives us insight on what our ancient ancestors looked like.

A random interesting fact I never knew about platypuses was that it is one of two mammals (the other was an echidna I think?) that use electrical pulses to detect pray. The bizarre gene sequence of the platypus proves that it’s practically 3 species or more in one animal! Also the platypus gene sequence provides us with links between immune systems. The sequencing revealed that platypus contains antimicrobial peptide genes which kill bacteria and this could be used to develop antibiotics.

i like gabe’s idea that now the scientists can find out more about the environment that the platypus lived in millions of years ago. Scientists may be able to find out a lot about the world back then if they compare this animal with others from that time. Maybe the environment had a lot of influence over their formation or maybe they were just placed on earth to show ‘god’s sense of humor’. the world might be turned upside down if the platypus did indeed turn to be the common ancestor.

I believe that platypuses are animals that are unique towards his own kind because he is like an animal that never stops amazing features. It capabilities or purpose in this world may not be distinct but i believe that they have a purpose for being on earth.

The platypus is living proof of how evolution works. The animal demonstrates how favorable traits are preserved over time through the process of natural selection.
It is definitely amazing how the genome can allow us to better understand relationships between organisms.

Like Gabe I wonder why the platypus does not have other DNA such as fish. Maybe it could not adapt and survive in the environment if it, although it still puzzles me as to how it has. I believe we have so much more to learn about the platypus but I am not sure we will ever quite crack the mystery behind it.

I agree that this is all so incredibly interesting. I cannot fathom how it happened or what it took to make this species come about. I also would like to know how exactly it happened.

It is amazing that the platypus shares characteristics of THREE different animals. This poses the idea that maybe living organisms began with qualities of all the types of animals, but that through evolution they branched off into certain animals with the certain qualities that define them. The platypus may have sustained some characteristics displayed by the different types of animals because it was favorable in its natural selection.

This further validates the study of evolution through genomics and illustrates the physical and genetically diverse specimen, possibly giving us links between, well orders and genus’ and also giving more insight as to when those branches were separated. Wow Australia is a freak of nature (literally).

Genomics research has the capability of revealing important relationships among species that may help uncover the possible relationships that humans may share. It is amazing that we are able to trace the origin of living organisms through something as complex as the molecular level. Through the detailed genomics research, scientists will be able to unmask the hidden secrets of evolution and discover other relationships among species that may pose significance to our nature.

I think that the platypus is one the most amazing creatures on this planet. Could its diversity in DNA mean that this animal is the animal from which birds, mammals, and reptiles diverged?

As the technology for analyzing DNA has become more and more advanced, it will be much easier to find or discover common genes and establish relationships between humans and possibly other animal, to find out how related we are, in terms of evolution.

LOL, now i read the second paragraph and they have uncovered its DNA and see bird and reptile sequences. I think that the Platypus might have had more bird and reptile DNA in its genome and is slowly diverging from them. I don’t think they r amazing like ANU but i do respect the Venom.

Genomics are able to show a relation ship between species in which no other possible comparative thing can. It allows genes to be shown that no longer are active, sort of like vestigial genes ( if those two words can even be paired together ) that used to have a function for the animal but that function has stopped in the latter part of the evolutionary scope. I think this new type of data will let us trace the origins of almost all species back to possible a few single celled organisms. Or it could possible just leave us wondering even more about how life could possibly happen. After all divinity is a fickle, fickle thing…..

The platypus is pretty much the best animal ever in my opinion. While it might look kind of funny it has the best of almost every world the animal kingdom has to offer. It lays eggs, which I’m sure most mothers would love to have been able to do. It has poison, which would be really nice to have if you’re ever being chased by some nasty bear. It can swim really well. It has a cool beak, a beaver tale. To be honest is not really that bizarre, evolution has simply allowed this animal to be able to everything and anything, in a strange way its the ultimate animal.

Genomics just helps us understand where some species could of evolved from another species. Genomics research will probably help us to realize that humans and animals are all some how related. The platypus is probably the ancestor of humans because they contain bird, reptile, and mammal DNA, but only research could give us better clues.

The platypus seems like a collage of all the animal we seem to love and hold close to our hearts; the pretty bird, the cool reptile, and the nice, hairy reptiles. It is crazy how one animal can do all these things, and this is probably the reason why the platypus is living so long due to its many flamboyant characteristics. I’m really surprised that it could shoot venom! Now that is awesome, no one would try to stop a duck-looking animal that produces venom.

Technology amazes me as history presses on forward. It is great to see that the platypus is the “missing link”, but how did the platypus evolve into reptiles, birds, mammals, and other animal? I don’t think it is possible for the platypus to just evolve according to the platypus’s needs for each environment. There are many humans who live in completely different environments. So does that mean humans are going to evolve into something else? Not any time soon……